Jimmy Bourque, Sr.

St. Martinville - A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, February 06, 2024, at Pellerin Funeral Home in St. Martinville for Jimmy Bourque, Sr., 77, who passed away on February 3, 2024, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. 

A visitation will take place at the funeral home at Pellerin Funeral Home in St. Martinville on Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Brother Travis Savoy will officiate at the funeral service. 

Jimmy Bourque, Sr., a dedicated commercial fisherman, has sadly passed away at the age of 77, in his hometown of St. Martinville. Born on December 11, 1946, Jimmy's departure on February 3, 2024, has left a void in the hearts of his loved ones and the community he cherished so deeply.

Throughout his life, Jimmy exemplified a profound love for the Atchafalaya Basin. His passion for fishing was unmatched, and he would often lose track of time by the sounds of nature and the stillness of the water.  The peace and tranquility he found in the Basin was captivating; it was a place where he could rejuvenate his spirit and connect with the natural world.

Described as a kind-hearted man, Jimmy loved his family unconditionally. He tirelessly worked to provide them with a good life, driven by a loving devotion that touched every corner of their lives. His children and grandchildren were blessed to have him as their anchor - a guiding force who navigated through life with grace and humility.

In addition to his career in the Basin, Jimmy had an array of hobbies and interests that brought endless joy to his life. Beyond fishing, he relished entertaining his family and friends, spreading laughter and warmth wherever he went. He had an innate talent for culinary delights and took pleasure in sharing his delectable creations with loved ones.

Jimmy's zest for life extended beyond these endeavors into the realm of dance. He possessed an infectious rhythm that set the dance floor ablaze, captivating everyone around him with his self-taught movements. His love for music ran deep through his soul as he effortlessly glided across any dance floor.

Among the cherished traditions that Jimmy held dear, decorating his boat with Christmas lights became an annual spectacle within the community. As December unfolded, the sight of his illuminated vessel in the front yard symbolized not only his festive spirit, but also his commitment to spreading joy throughout the holiday season. 

As we bid farewell to Jimmy, let us remember him as a man who poured his heart and soul into all that he did. His presence touched countless lives, leaving a fond remembrance with everyone fortunate enough to have known him. 

He is survived by his wife, of 29 years, Darlene Simon Bourque; children, Jimmy Bourque, Jr., Kenneth Bourque (Danette), Melissa Walker (Lynn), Shawn Bourque (Patricia), and Evelyn Bourque; step-children, Merlin Bourque, Jr., Joey Bourque, Joshua Bourque (Candy) and Jennifer Martinez; 19 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; siblings, Harris Burch (Maxine), Anna Lee Berard, Juanita Chatagnier, Murphy Bourque (Diane), Audrey Horton, Ethel Melancon (Allen), Alberta Escagne, Merlin Bourque, Sr. (Jeanette), and Melba Romero (Doug); and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Yola Sonnier Bourque; daughters-in-law, Connie Bourque and Dorrie Hebert Bourque; brother, Albert Bourque, Jr.; and his in-laws, Joseph and Bobbie Simon. 

Pallbearers will be Zane Seneca, Alex Seneca, Ryan Bourque, Jacob Bourque, Joshua Bourque, and Phillip Brouillette. 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Heart of Hospice for the excellent care given to Jimmy and to Tina, Phillip and Brandy Brouillette for their love and support. 

Pellerin Funeral Home, 112 New Market St., St. Martinville, LA 70582 (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.